EU Ambassador Andreas Peschke outlines a new chapter in EU-Kenya relations
Speaking during a media interview with NTV Kenya, Ambassador Peschke said the EU-Kenya relationship is evolving beyond the traditional donor-recipient model towards a partnership of equals, built on mutual respect, shared interests and joint opportunity.
From aid to investment
The Ambassador said one of the clearest shifts in the relationship is the move from aid to trade and investment. He highlighted the implementation of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) as a key priority, noting that trade between Kenya and the EU currently stands at around €3 billion a year, with both sides aiming to double that figure within five years.
He also pointed to ongoing work on rules of origin and data adequacy, which could help Kenyan businesses, including in the digital economy, access the wider European market.
Through the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, he said, the Union is also seeking to use public resources to mobilise private investment in sectors that create jobs, expand opportunity and support local value addition.
“We don’t want to have this donor-recipient relationship any longer. What we are trying to have is a relationship between equals, where we listen to each other and where we can learn from each other.”
— EU Ambassador Andreas Peschke
Shared security and democratic resilience
On security, Ambassador Peschke said the EU is preparing support of up to €20 million for relevant Kenyan agencies, particularly in areas such as maritime security, anti-piracy efforts and regional stability, including in Somalia.
He also underlined the importance of dialogue on shared democratic challenges, including disinformation, misinformation and threats to electoral integrity. Respect for Kenya’s sovereignty, he said, remains fundamental, while cooperation can help strengthen institutions, credible processes and independent media.
Youth, mobility and mutual learning
The Ambassador described young people as central to the future of the partnership, pointing to recent engagements through the AU-EU Youth Lab and the KCA University Innovation summit. He encouraged youth to claim their space and take part fully in civic and political life.
On migration, he said efforts to address irregular migration should be matched by greater opportunities for legal migration, especially for young professionals who can contribute to labour markets in Europe and beyond.
Ambassador Peschke also said Europe has much to learn from Kenya, especially in digital innovation and digital mobilisation.
A partnership for the future
As the EU and Kenya commemorate five decades of relations, Ambassador Peschke said the anniversary is a moment to reflect on how far the partnership has come and where it is headed next.
His message is clear: the future of EU-Kenya relations lies in a more balanced, modern partnership — one driven by investment, cooperation and shared ambition.